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ehotelier Hospitality News Archives: April 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: April 28, 2006Tired of Hotel Sales Training That Excites… But Doesn’t Change Anything?Hotel sales training has been an important, yet somewhat controversial topic for many years. Everyone agrees that the potential benefits that can be derived from training make it a great investment. But, in too many cases, the results have fallen short of its expectations; we find that, sometimes, there is a huge gap between what people learn during the training and what they actually practice after training. More... [1525 views] Holy cow. Look at them molecular gastronomersYeoh Siew Hoon gets into the mood of things at the World Gourmet Summit. More... [922 views] Thailand confident of bouncing back this yearAfter falling short of its tourism targets last year, Thailand hopes to bounce back and attract 13.8 million foreign tourists this year. Against a set target of 13.8 million last year, the South East Asian nation could only manage to attract 12 million due to devastating tsunami in December 2004. More... [603 views] Create Tourism Opportunities, 'For Crisis's Sake!'Analysing potential risks and having a solid crisis management plan can turn a disaster into an opportunity, according to a leading crisis management consultant. Mr Bert van Walbeek of The Winning Edge said: "Don't think it (a crisis) won't happen to you. Face the risk." More... [919 views] Study: Housekeeper work getting more dangerousA new study released, "Creating Luxury, Enduring Pain" couples new research with the stories of hotel housekeepers to paint a dramatic picture of the work of a hotel housekeeper. Findings show that behind the luxury and comfort that housekeepers provide for hotel guests is a pattern of persistent pain and injury. More... [1640 views] Starwood Reports First Quarter 2006 ResultsStarwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. First Quarter 2006 Highlights. Excluding special items, EPS from continuing operations increased 17.1% to $0.41 compared to $0.35 for the first quarter of 2005. Including special items, EPS from continuing operations was $0.34 compared to $0.36 in the first quarter of 2005. Worldwide system-wide REVPAR, excluding Le Meridien, increased 10.3% compared to the first quarter of 2005. System-wide REVPAR for Same-Store Hotels in North America increased 12.1% when compared to the first quarter of 2005. More... [661 views] Accor Divests Stake in Carlson Wagonlit TravelAs part of the strategic review of its business portfolio, Accor Group has signed an agreement to sell for $ 465 million its entire 50% interest in Carlson Wagonlit Travel (CWT) to Carlson Companies and One Equity Partners LLC (OEP), a private equity affiliate of JPMorgan Chase & Co. More... [681 views] Minor International announces the UAE début of the Anantara brand with two hotel properties in DubaiMinor International will make its debut as an exhibitor at Arabian Travel Market with the announcement of the opening of a luxurious resort and a stylish hotel, both located in Dubai. The management contracts are the first UAE ventures for the Thailand-based company, one of the leading hospitality and leisure organisations in the Asia-Pacific region. More... [961 views] Mid East Target for Global Lifestyle Properties says Hotel Missoni Brand ChiefThe Middle East is likely to see the global launch of other lifestyle hotel brands, according the Senior Vice President Brands, Rezidor SAS Hospitality, one of the fastest and most dynamic hospitality companies in the world. More... [888 views] Choice Hotels International Promotes Stacy Ragland to Newly Created Position of Vice President, Franchise PerformanceChoice Hotels International, Inc. recently announced the promotion of Stacy Ragland to the position of vice president, franchise performance. In her new role, Ragland, who has been at Choice for over a decade, will focus on improving property-level performance and maximizing franchisee retention. In addition, the franchise services division will now report up through Ragland. More... [571 views] AH&LA Debuts New Conference In DenverThe American Hotel & Lodging Association (AH&LA) is hosting its inaugural 2006 Summer Summit, June 27-29, at The Brown Palace in Denver, Colo. AH&LA is putting the intelligence of nearly 20 committees in one place for three fast-paced days of business, knowledge, and networking. More... [506 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: April 27, 2006Hottest Hotel SpasLuxury hotels have been partnering with beauty companies, offering unusual treatments that go beyond the standard facial and massage. They have created spa spaces that are destinations rather than afterthoughts and treatments geared toward male clients. These concepts may have a ripple effect on hotel spas in the coming years. More... [2035 views] ‘Groom Asian tourism leaders’A consequence of Asian-led growth in travel is an urgent need to develop Asian tourism leaders, according Wah Chang group chairman Mr Ho Kwon Ping who keynoted PATA 2006 on April 24. Mr Ho, an exemplary example of a successful Asian hospitality and business captain, said: "In the last century, when well-heeled Western tourists experienced Asian hospitality, the unspoken paradigm was that of the Caucasian expatriate GM and the smiling, gracious Asian waitress or bellboy. By Raini Hamdi More... [993 views] Even a dingo can learn the lingoLike everyone else around the world, or so she thought, Yeoh Siew Hoon is taking Mandarin classes. More... [898 views] Real Estate Investment Trusts (REIT) within Hospitality Industry - By Kison Patel & Robin TrehanReal Estate Investment Trusts (REIT) have been available since 1960, but it has only been in the last decade that they have become a major powerhouse on the exchange. Since 2001, REITs have outperformed most other major market benchmarks including the Dow Jones Industrials, S&P 500 and the NASDAQ Composite. So what are REITs and why should you invest in them. By Robin C. Trehan is and Kison Patel
More... [971 views] Baby Boomer Market Set to Grow, while Generation Y shrinksThe Baby Boomer segment of the travel market, in terms of expenditure, will continue to grow over the coming decades, while Generation X is fast becoming a driving force. The smaller Generation Y tends to stay at home, having become "slaves to the screen". More... [1114 views] PATA Acclaims Tourism Industry Best PracticeTwenty nine Gold Awards were handed out during the 2006 PATA Gold Awards Luncheon hosted by the Macau Government Tourist Office (MGTO). More... [649 views] Vinexpo Asia-Pacific 2006 “University”A high level crash-course in the latest trends and developments in the world of wine and spirits looks set to be one of the most potent attractions at Vinexpo Asia Pacific, next month at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. More... [559 views] Best Western International Becomes First US-Based Lodging Company with Customized Travel InsuranceAccess America, a leading provider of travel insurance and assistance, today announced a partnership with Best Western International to market trip protection on bestwestern.com. More... [557 views] Dubai JV to launch Premier Travel Inn overseasWhitbread’s budget hotel chain Premier Travel Inn has lifted FY operating profits by more than 30% to around £139m. More... [679 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: April 26, 20064 Steps to Spectacular Customer ServiceA simple, four-step process can help you create the type of business that draws customers in again and again. More... [2539 views] Langham Hotels International announces latest executive appointmentsLangham Hotels International (LHI) is pleased to announce several executive appointments to support the group's expansion and development:.... More... [2005 views] Cornell Study Examines Hotel Loyalty Programs and Internet IntermediariesInternet intermediaries such as Expedia and Travelocity may find it advantageous to award their customers points in the hotel chains’ loyalty programs, but so far the chains have resisted that step. A new report from the Cornell University Center for Hospitality Research examines the complex situation that hotel chains face in dealing with the online websites that sell discounted rooms using a merchant model. More... [1413 views] Travel Industry to Change in Ways we Cannot ImagineSome 1,141 delegates and leaders representing all sectors of the travel and tourism industry in Asia Pacific have convened at the 55th PATA Annual Conference in Pattaya, Thailand, to discuss the theme, “Changing Lifestyles – New Opportunities.” Opening speakers said the convergence of economic, demographic and cultural trends would continue to revolutionise the travel industry. More... [951 views] Lifetime Achievement award for Sheikh MohammedHotel industry chiefs recognise spectacular development of Dubai. The Arabian Hotel Investment Conference has conferred its 2006 Lifetime Achievement Award on His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE vice president and prime minister and ruler of Dubai, in recognition of the realisation of his vision for the emirate. More... [831 views] Donald J. Trump Launches His First Luxury Development in PanamaThe Trump Organization and K Group, a premier high-end resort developer in Panama, have entered into a partnership to develop Trump Ocean Club, international Hotel & Tower, in Panama City, Panama. The project was announced by Mr. Donald J. Trump and Mr. Roger Khafif, President, K Group. Trump Ocean Club will be the new benchmark in high-end real estate in Panama. More... [1767 views] Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts Continues to Build on the Pillars of SuccessMövenpick Hotels & Resorts (MH&R) have found the winning formula encouraging the Swiss hotel chain to continue their ambitious expansion strategy within the Middle East. T he success of the dynamic strategy of MH&R proves the group's ability to recognize the ever-changing needs of customers within the increasingly sophisticated hospitality industry. More... [931 views] South Korea’s Shilla Joins Marketing Forces with India’s Taj Luxury HotelsSouth Korea’s premier 5-star hotel group, The Shilla Hotels & Resorts, has formed a strategic marketing alliance with India’s Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces, one of Asia’s largest and finest group of hotels. The two prestigious brands plan to develop cross-promotional opportunities to harness each other’s strengths and dominance in their respective markets. More... [822 views] WTTC signals continued growth and room for improvement in new report for China and SARsThe World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) presented today its brand new report on China, China Hong Kong SAR and China Macau SAR: The Impact of Travel & Tourism on Jobs and the Economy to China National Tourism Administration (CNTA) and Beijing Tourism Authority (BTA) as well as over 100 representatives from the Travel & Tourism and media community of Beijing. More... [584 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: April 25, 2006Thirty killed, 150 wounded in Egyptian Sinai resort explosionsThrity people were killed and 150 wounded by three explosions that ripped through the Egyptian Sinai resort town of Dahab on Monday, a security official said. "It is twenty-two dead and 150 wounded ... There were three explosions," said the official, who did not want to be named. An official with the local ambulance service said many of the dead appeared to be foreigners. More... [1147 views] Most Expensive Hotel Rooms In The U.S.For some travelers, $300 for a night in a luxurious hotel is ample extravagance. But others seek the truly decadent--bigger, splashier and far more expensive. For them, there are options like the $25,000-per-night penthouse suite at The Setai in South Beach, Miami. By Sophia Banay, Forbes.com More... [2271 views] Let Them Eat Cake: The Growing Contribution Of Hotel Food And Beverage To The Bottom LineOver the past decade, the food and beverage department (F&B) at hotels has transitioned significantly. Hotels with restaurants continue to improve their F&B operations, from expanding menus to creating unique offerings for guests. On the other end of the spectrum, hotels without restaurants primarily focus on maximizing profit in the rooms department. More... [1892 views] Four Seasons an attractive target for private equityWant to know how the big private equity funds search for their next billion-dollar buyout? In the back offices of Onex, Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. and Blackstone, far from the beautiful art that decorates the reception areas, reams of young analysts are crunching numbers. They've got billions of dollars to invest, and potential homes for this money include marquee companies that for one reason or another no longer suit the public markets. Which brings us to one of the premier names in Corporate Canada: Four Seasons Hotels. More... [1329 views] Hot times for hotelsIt's a great time to be a hotelier. But not so great if you're looking for a good rate in a popular place. The U.S. industry is coming off one of its best years in the past quarter century, according to hotel-tracking data from Smith Travel Research More... [889 views] Regal Hotels Intl switches focus to 5 bln hkd Beijing JVRegal Hotels International is switching its real estate focus from a Macau hotel-retail complex to a joint-venture project in Beijing, the Standard reported. More... [651 views] W Hotels Launches First-Ever Guest Messaging ServiceW Hotels Worldwide has partnered with Upoc Networks to launch W To Go(TM), the first Mobile Short Messaging Service (SMS Text) application specifically designed for the hospitality industry. The product was installed in select W Hotels beginning on March 24, 2006. More... [1242 views] World Travel & Tourism Council Launches Long-term Forecast for Middle East Travel & Tourism PotentialThe World Travel & Tourism Council welcomes members of the media to join a special meeting with WTTC Members and other prominent industry leaders from across the Middle East and the world on Saturday April 29, 2006 at 11.00 at the Emirates Towers in Dubai. This event will be hosted by Gerald Lawless, CEO, Jumeirah Group. More... [667 views] InterContinental Hotels Group unveils majestic Taba Heights resort propertyBetween the cinnamon-colored backdrop of the Sinai desert and the cool, sapphire waters of the Red Sea, InterContinental Hotels Group, has opened its newest hotel in the region, InterContinental Resort Taba Heights. More... [766 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: April 24, 2006Court approves takeover of Fairmont HotelsAn Ontario Superior Court judge approved a Saudi firm's $3.3-billion takeover of Fairmont Hotels & Resorts Inc. yesterday after dissent debtholders withdrew their objections when the deal's bond payout was increased. More... [1101 views] Conde Nast Traveler's 10th annual May "Hot List"Conde Nast Traveler's 10th annual May "Hot List" issue is the insider's guide to the newest, hottest, sexiest hotels, restaurants, spas, and nightclubs opened all over the world in the past year. To develop the list, the magazine's editors checked out hundreds of new properties around the globe More... [1886 views] Anna Marie Presutti Takes the Helm at Hotel Nikko San Francisco; Japanese Company's First Female Officer, First Female General ManagerAnna Marie Presutti, previously Vice President of Sales & Marketing, Nikko Hotels International, has been promoted to Vice President and General Manager of Hotel Nikko (U.S.A.), Inc., and Hotel Nikko San Francisco. Hotel Nikko (U.S.A.), Inc., is a sales and marketing division of JAL Hotels Co., Ltd., which operates Nikko Hotels International. More... [1010 views] Millennium to open 35 hotels in 5 yearsMillennium Hotels & Resorts announced the opening of its regional headquarters in Abu Dhabi and its plans to develop 35 hotels in the Middle East and North Africa region (MENA) over the next 5 years. More... [1044 views] La Quinta honors top hotels with Inn of the Year AwardsLa Quinta announces the La Quinta Inn & Suites - Albuquerque West (NM) and the La Quinta Inn - Tampa South (FL) as the recipients of the Company's 2005 Inn of the Year awards. More... [546 views] CSR Asia and IBLF to Convene First Global Conference on Corporate Social Responsibility in Travel, Tourism and Hospitality IndustriesCSR Asia and the International Business Leaders Forum (IBLF) will co-host a conference in July of 2006 in Singapore for leaders in travel, tourism and hospitality industries to address critical social responsibility issues. This event will gather key stakeholders from around the world to discuss challenges and opportunities in sustainable growth and development, particularly for the Asia Pacific region. More... [568 views] Introducing "Peninsula Wellness"The Peninsula Hotels continues its tradition of exceptional, personalized service with the launch of Peninsula Wellness – a lifestyle program that touches every aspect of a guest’s well-being, both during their stay and beyond, and which focuses on providing a sanctuary for the five senses of sight, sound, smell, taste and touch. More... [984 views] Security 'ran hotel orgies'A security company with staff associated with the Coffin Cheaters bikie gang is behind a racket of theft, drugs and prostitutes at a five-star Perth hotel - Australia. An investigation by The Sunday Times has thrown open a pandora's box of crime and corruption at the Rendezvous Observation City Hotel in Scarborough.The Sunday Times revealed last week that up to a dozen hotel managers and staff – including the contracted security team – were sacked for using hotel rooms for wild parties and drug-fuelled sex orgies. More... [1608 views] St. Regis Hotel, Shanghai introduces Lifestyle Butler ServiceTo further extend the St. Regis lifestyle, the Lifestyle Butler Service offers escorting guests to private viewings at some of the Chinese artists’ studios or museums and arranging cultural day trips in the city. More... [1097 views] Starwood Hotels and Resorts reaches a milestone in China, announcing its 50th hotel in Greater China: Four Points by Sheraton Shanghai, DaningFour Points by Sheraton Shanghai, Daning will be the 9th Starwood hotel in Shanghai More... [726 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: April 21, 2006You Got A Job Offer. Now What?It's the best of all possible worlds: You've got competing job offers from two top-notch companies. Now what? More... [2454 views] Marriott 1st Qtr Net Income Falls to $65 million from $145 million a Year EarlierTakes a $105 million Charge for an Accounting Change Involving Timeshare Business. Marriott International, Inc. today reported first quarter 2006 adjusted net income of $167 million, an increase of 31 percent, and adjusted diluted earnings per share (EPS) of $0.76, an increase of 43 percent. Adjusted results exclude the impact of the one-time charge related to the change in timeshare accounting rules and the results of the company's synthetic fuel business. More... [768 views] It's hard work in France these days but life sure is goodI arrived in Paris two days before the French government were due to make a decision on a new work law, which had sparked a nation-wide outcry among students and unions. By Yeoh Siew Hoon More... [1125 views] Paradigm Shifts a possible in Hospitality Industry?While the traditional business logic was based on a high level of structure and control, the dynamics of the new business environment requires a different model of organization design. This model should be characterized by relative lack of structure and lack of external controls. This model should assume the existence of only a few rules, some specific information and a lot of freedom. By Jerry Jerome Cedicc & Robin Trehan More... [1321 views] Rezidor SAS launches eLearningFurther strengthening its goal to establish an organisation driven by revenue generation, and its enduring commitment to “promote from within”, Rezidor SAS recently launched eLearning, by developing and introducing its first module: Basic Revenue Management Principles. More... [818 views] Tips for Effectively Hiring Spa ConsultantsOutsourcing a project is a big decision and often involves a significant investment and reward. To ensure you receive high value from the consultant, it is imperative enough time is allocated to the selection process. Too many clients are so anxious to get the results they miss this critical step and waste a lot of money paying for an unsuccessful project. More... [1110 views] Twelve More Genuine Boutique Hotels Qualify and Join Boutique®Twelve more authentic boutique hotels have qualified and been accepted to join Boutique Hotels & Resorts International®, the first global collection of genuine boutique hotel gems. More... [972 views] Cendant Appoints Leading Technology Industry Executive Jeff Clarke as CEO and President of its Travel Distribution Services DivisionCendant Corporation announced that leading technology executive, Jeff Clarke, has been appointed CEO and president of its Travel Distribution Services (TDS) Division, effective May 1, 2006. More... [548 views] Crown Prince Clogs Up Four Seasons Hong KongHotelChatter reports: One of our spies recently stayed at the Four Seasons Hong Kong at the same time the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia was staying there. While chatting up the hotel staffers, our spy learned that the Crown Prince, his entourage and security detail....... More... [1932 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: April 20, 2006Court to rule on $3.3B Fairmont Hotels takeover by group led by Saudi princeIt is now up to an Ontario court rule on a $3.3-billion takeover bid for Fairmont Hotels & Resorts Inc. (TSX:FHR) after shareholders overwhelmingly approved its acquisition by a group led by Saudi Prince al-Waleed bin Talal. Shareholders voted 98.6 per cent in favour of the deal, which is valued at about $4.5 billion Cdn including debt, at a special meeting Tuesday in Toronto's landmark Fairmont Royal York hotel. More... [1093 views] Shareholders OK takeover of Fairmont HotelsShareholders of Fairmont Hotels & Resorts on Tuesday overwhelmingly approved a $3.3 billion takeover by a group led by Saudi Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal, but opponents intend to take the bid to court. Tuesday's vote, with 98.6 percent approval, gave the green light despite last-minute opposition by some debt holders. The deal now goes before Ontario Superior Court on Thursday for a hearing. More... [837 views] AAHOA Award Winners AnnouncedThe Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA) announced six award winners for the year 2005 and the 2006-2007 annual scholarship recipient during its closing gala on March 24, 2006 in Las Vegas, Nevada, at its annual convention and trade show. More... [731 views] Jinjiang Inn Company, Based in Shanghai, Appoints Christopher Sheldon as Vice President of OperationsThe Jinjiang Inn Company is China's fastest growing hotel brand. Jinjiang Inn operates in the economy hotel sector and is a subsidiary of Jinjiang International. The company's brand and development strategy requires the appointment of an experienced hotel operations executive and through the services of HVS Executive Search has appointed Christopher Sheldon as Vice President of Operation to contribute to leading their brand strategy forward. More... [933 views] Disconnect between Expenditures, Organizational Performance and Human CapitalThe confusion between knowledge and information has caused companies to spend billions of dollars in information technology investments that have often led to poor results. The disconnection between IT expenditures and the firm’s organizational performance could be attributed to the fact that we face obvious transition of competitive advantage based on information to one based on knowledge creation. More... [868 views] Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group Appoints Gerd Knaust as General Manager of Mandarin Oriental, SanyaMandarin Oriental Hotel Group has announced the appointment of Gerd Knaust as General Manager of the Group’s first property on the mainland, Mandarin Oriental, Sanya. More... [1069 views] Global and Fraser Form $500m Hospitality CompanyKuwait-based leading regional investment bank Global Investment House, and Singapore-based Fraser Serviced Residences, a global operator of serviced residences, yesterday announced in Dubai a partnership to create a Middle Eastern hospitality holding company which intends to invest $500 million over the next five years in serviced residence properties in the region. More... [555 views] Rezidor SAS Announces New Hotels in RussiaAs Rezidor SAS continues to move into Russia's hotel market, the company last week announced three new Radisson SAS hotels -- two in Moscow and one in St. Petersburg -- saying they are just a few of the projects it has in the works. More... [817 views] Finding the Middle Ground in Manhattan HotelsBesides Courtyard by Marriott, hotels like Holiday Inn Express, Hilton Garden Inn, Hampton Inn and others have expanded over the last decade from suburban to urban areas, including New York City. With Manhattan loaded with full-service hotels — and with its average hotel room rate hitting $232 a night in 2005, according to PricewaterhouseCoopers — the so-called midpriced hotels have been finding eager customers. More... [678 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: April 19, 2006Edouard Ettedgui: London or Hong Kong, you don't stay in a hotel, you stay in a brandAnd the brand is luxury, says the French boss of the Asian group Mandarin Oriental who knows more about labels than Posh Spice..... More... [2204 views] Knowledge management a necessityKnowledge management is a structure within which the organization views all its processes as knowledge processes. In this view, all business processes involve formation, distribution, renewal, and application of knowledge toward organizational sustenance and survival. This concept embodies a transition from information value chain to a knowledge value chain. More... [1125 views] A Gateway to Limitless LuxuryDesigner Gianni Versace's Mansion Goes from Crime Scene to Chic Hotel. Casa Casuarina is one of the most famous houses in America and one of the most photographed in Miami's South Beach. It was a playground for the rich and famous. Elton John, Madonna and Sting hung out by the mosaic-tiled pool. More... [801 views] Unique Munich - Munich's Mandarin OrientalTucked away in a quiet side street within Munich’s Old Town, this elegant hotel offers spectacular views over rooftops (and on a clear day, of the Alps.) The corporate headquarters of many businesses are nearby, as well as many of Munich’s museums, art galleries, antique shops, theaters, chic boutiques, Rococo churches and famous squares. The animated clock, the Glockenspiel of Marienplatz, and the world-class shopping of the Maximillianstrasse are steps away. Next door to the hotel is one of Munich’s oldest and most famous breweries, the Hofbräuhaus. More... [948 views] 'Pretty Woman' has best hotel sceneJulia Roberts’ bath with Richard Gere in Pretty Woman has been voted the best hotel-based movie scene. The romantic encounter between Gere’s businessman and Roberts’ warm-hearted prostitute topped the poll, fighting off competition from films ranging from Psycho to Ghostbusters.Check out the top ten list... More... [1633 views] Golden Tulip preparing an initiative to re-enter the U.S. MarketGolden Tulip Hospitality announces the preparation of an initiative to re-enter the US market. Golden Tulip retained the American based Hospitality Consulting Group, Inc. to study the US market potential and strategy that would assure the superior delivery of its products, services and investment results to its customers, investors and partners in the U.S.A. More... [616 views] European Hotel Prices 8.7 Pct Lower Q4 2005The average prices for hotel accommodation in Europe fell 8.7 pct yearonyear in the last quarter of 2005, according to the hotel price index (HPI) of Internet portal Hotels.com published on April 14, 2006. The cheapest hotels were in Budapest where the average overnight stay cost 84 euro ($102.3), down 13 pct. More... [838 views] Hotel star warsChoose to stay in a one-star or a one-diamond hotel and you'll get pretty much what you expect: budget rates, a clean no-frills room, thin towels and (if you're lucky) a breakfast of sticky buns with coffee in the lobby. At the luxury end of the spectrum, however, hotel ratings have become harder to decipher, especially with the advent of self-proclaimed six- and seven-star properties. More... [1328 views] Two New Business Sectors Recommended For .travelThe Travel Partnership Corporation Recommends Consideration of Two New Sectors Eligible for .travel Top Level Domain Name The Travel Partnership Corporation (TTPC), the non-profit body responsible for developing domain name eligibility policies for the .travel TLD, recommended the inclusion of two new sectors to the list of travel industry entities eligible to hold such domain names. More... [606 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: April 18, 2006Talking Education - To be or not to be : Quality or Quantity ?Part 4 - The last time I stood in front of my Master Students we reviewed the Course “Management for Quality Tourism and Hospitality Services “ This course embraced three main concepts; service management, quality management and operations management and links these accepted managerial techniques to tourism, its industries and its markets. It is argued in this course that service operations are the “ black box “ of the management sciences. We realize that we are working in a service industry but are still baffled about what really happens inside service firms and how to make it happen better. By Bert van Walbeek More... [1093 views] Service at the Level of Creating Truly Memorable Experiences Requires a Completely New Definition and Spirit of Caring ServiceThis article is about a subject that never seems to be questioned, namely, the depth of caring service that a hotel provides or should be providing, and I think it’s time to do so. It seems that any level of service is labeled caring service nowadays, even if it’s not very caring, and as a result the description “caring service” is losing its credibility. I see that even a pizza company and a stray dogs home are saying that they provide “caring service”! By Peter McAlpine More... [1316 views] Acing The Job InterviewWant to blow a job interview? It's easy! Show up late for the appointment, dress inappropriately and be sure to tell a stupid joke. Many candidates don't understand a basic point: You're being sized up from the minute you step into the office, so be quick-witted, don't let your guard down—and don't snarl at the receptionist. By Scott Reeves, Forbes.com More... [1604 views] 2006 Ranking Of The Top 10 Hotel Groups WorldwideMKG Releases Annual Hotel Group Rankings - Ranking positions haven't changed much, but supply is in full growth! More... [3334 views] Is The Internet Out Of Room?The Internet is supposed to be limitless--a boundary-free exchange of digital information and profit. So how can it be running out of real estate? The answer, according to information technology experts, lies in cyberspace's ever-growing popularity. In theory, each new user who wants to log on needs a new address, as does each new Internet-enabled gadget, like smartphones that can access the Web. Routers, which allow multiple users and devices to use a single address, are helping stave off the problem for now, but it's only a stopgap measure. More... [758 views] Renowned designer Philippe Stark to create new luxury hotel brandSBE Entertainment Group (SBE) and its hospitality division, SBE Hotel Group (SBEHG), announced today the signing of an exclusive agreement with renowned designer, Philippe Starck, for the creation of a new luxury hotel brand, to debut in early 2008. The announcement of the 15-year exclusive, which covers hotel properties in North America, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean, was made by SBE CEO Sam Nazarian. More... [1428 views] Leadership, Organization and Knowledge ManagementA dynamic leadership is a necessity for sharing knowledge. Throughout the knowledge process, leaders concern themselves with the following questions: What needs to change and why? How do we build the necessary connection between people and ideas? How will we create a community of people who are ready and willing to act? More... [1026 views] About 15.45 Million Chinese expected to travel overseas in first half of 2006About 15.45 million Chinese from the mainland are expected to visit foreign destinations in the first half of this year amid booming outbound Asia-Pacific tourists, indicated a survey by credit card company Master Card International. More... [975 views] Starwood Hotels & Resorts Launches New Marketing Initiative in the UKStarwood Hotels & Resorts in the Middle East has launched a new marketing initiative in the UK to promote its expanding portfolio of hotels in the Gulf region. The Big PR Agency has been appointed to execute a focused PR programme to increase the UK profile of Starwood’s properties within the Middle East. More... [1009 views] New Hotel Brand Launches at ATM 2006‘Finally, Lifestyle Properties Distinctly Conceived, Designed, and Operated for the Region’s Discerning Travelers,’ says CEO The Middle East and North Africa will see the birth of more than twenty lifestyle hotels over the next ten years, according to senior executives with the newly-launched hotel brand, exhibiting at the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai 2 through 5 May. More... [865 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: April 17, 2006The Politics of Revenue ManagementHow interesting it has been for seasoned hospitality executives to witness firsthand the emergence of the profession of Revenue Management, and simultaneously, the significant improvements in RevPar our industry has achieved these last twenty or so years. Yet as far as we have come as an industry, most RM visionaries agree that we have so far actualized only a small percentage of industry’s potential benefit. Despite an up market, there is still far too much money being left on the table by hotels that have failed to actualize their revenue optimization potential. By Doug Kennedy More... [2132 views] Bunnies Or Eggs - Which Came First?Bunnies don't lay eggs - chickens do! Does the commercial side of Easter have bad information? It's all about information - the right information and how you can best obtain the correct information to make your company run smoothly and efficiently. By Gene Ference, HVS International More... [722 views] Hyatt Invests in Reducing Hassles on the Road with Ten New, Practical Tools including ''E-Concierge'' and ''Web Check-In''Hyatt responds to consumer demand with a collection of ten new products and services designed to reduce hassles and increase productivity on the road. Among the practical, service-oriented offerings, are E-Concierge, an online tool that will allow guests to plan their itinerary -- dinner reservations, destination activities and special requests -- weeks in advance of their stay and Web Check-in, which allows guests to check in at Hyatt.com from their home or office, guaranteeing their room of choice will be available upon arrival. More... [1075 views] At last, I’ve ironed out the kinks in my lifeYeoh Siew Hoon may have told you before, but she was the only student in her class who got an “F” in domestic science. Not even an E for effort. More... [744 views] New all suite hotel opening late 2006 in Dubai to offer 2,100 suites plus meetings & conference facilitiesFinding hotel and meetings space for medium to large size groups has long been a challenge in the rapidly developing Dubai. This challenge will soon be overcome when Bavaria Executive Suites Dubai opens late 2006 with 2,100 designer suites in two 40-storey towers connected by an air-conditioned pedestrian walkway, located within the Dubai Technology and Media Free Zone in the heart of the city's vibrant business district. More... [841 views] Hilton Enables Guests to Print Airline Boarding Passes from Hotel Check-in KiosksFurther enhancing the travel experience for its guests, from travel planning and check-in to check-out and beyond, Hilton Hotels has announced that the brand now enables guests to print boarding passes for most major airlines at check-in/check-out kiosks within the lobbies of 37 participating Hilton tels. More... [939 views] Whatever/Whenever (Really!) - W Hotel Guests Indulge in New Possibilities With the Re-Launch of Its Legendary Service PhilosophyInspired by the mantra that made hotel history, W Hotels Worldwide is re-launching its founding "Whatever/Whenever" philosophy with five new experiential offerings sure to turn the most discerning travelers into believers. Starting April 17th, guests who have long been treated to whatever they want, whenever they want it by pressing the Whatever/Whenever button on their hotel phone, will be offered new luxuries like luggage free travel, thoughtful pillow menus, portable snacks for the plane ride home and more. More... [1650 views] Greg Norman announced as keynote speaker for Arabian Hotel Investment ConferenceGreg Norman, celebrity golfer and chairman and CEO of Great White Shark Enterprises, will present a keynote speech to mark the end of formalities at the second annual Arabian Hotel Investment Conference being held this month at Madinat Jumeirah Conference Centre in Dubai. More... [615 views] YOTEL, the world’s most revolutionary hotel concept, to be unveiled at ATM 2006 for Middle East travellersFirst two ‘cabin’ hotels to open at London airports in September backed by majority stake holder IFA Hotels & Resorts. YOTEL, the world’s most revolutionary hotel concept, will be the highlight of the Middle East’s leading travel and tourism show, ATM (Arabian Travel Market) 2006 that will be held in Dubai from May 2 to 5, 2006. A prototype of the radical YOTEL project will be unveiled at the event for the first time in the Middle East. More... [960 views] Travel and Tourism Organizations collaborate for Avian Flu preparedness - others invited to join the Tourism Emergency Response NetworkMajor global travel organizations commit to work together to support UN coordinated avian flu preparation and response. Speaking at the Tourism Summit in Washington DC, the Secretary General of the World Tourism Organization Francisco Frangialli referred to the UN coordinated effort to respond to avian flu and prepare for a possible human pandemic. More... [643 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: April 14, 2006Stand up those who want to form a new tribeI am seriously considering applying to be a tribal member of a new “eco-democracy”, which is in the early stages of being formed in the South Pacific, says Yeoh Siew Hoon. More... [862 views] Top restaurants check into luxury hotelsFirst-rate food on the road abounds, survey finds. It may surprise business travelers who often encounter lackluster hotel restaurants or have permanently written off hotel food: A new survey shows there are plenty of first-rate hotel dining options. More... [1351 views] The Next Evolution Of Online RecruitmentInternet recruitment reaches new heights by blending in traditional search strategies. We live in an ever-changing world where hybrid solutions are becoming increasingly popular. The ability to combine the best attributes of two distinct models provides a unique solution for the consumer. In the continuing effort to supply companies with the best talent available, a hybrid recruitment solution has emerged. Lets examine how this model was born, its components and benefits. More... [1195 views] Starwood Hotels Launches New Blog; TheLobby.com to Provide Insider Access to Hotels, PGA Pros, Five-Star Chefs, Nightlife Gurus and MoreStarwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE:HOT) and its Starwood Preferred Guest program, the world's number one hotel loyalty program, is introducing a new online blog. Debuting today, TheLobby.com is a content-rich daily travel blog designed to create an emotional connection and foster a sense of belonging among the uber travelers that participate in Starwood Preferred Guest, as well as all travelers in search of exclusive, insider information on travel, destinations and more. More... [2231 views] Survey reveals family matters most to travelersWhen business travelers are not on the road, most want to spend time with their spouse or family. AmeriSuites and MasterCard International released a survey, conducted by Find SVP, stating that if given a $20 MasterCard gift card for staying in a hotel, 60% of respondents would spend that money on their families or spouses while 33% would spend the gift card on themselves. More... [648 views] Visitors to Barcelona continue to rise but hotel performance heads southBarcelona is the ideal all round destination with sand, sea and sunshine on the doorstep of a city rich in culture and tradition. Over recent years the number of visitors to the city has risen significantly. However, despite this hotel performance has been struggling. Figures from the HotelBenchmark™ Survey by Deloitte show that in 2005 revenue per available room (revPAR) fell to its lowest level in five years. More... [708 views] Travel and Hospitality Industry set to tap into Asia's US$4 Billion Medical Tourism MarketAsia’s burgeoning medical tourism industry, expected to be worth at least US$4 billion by 2012, is proving a windfall for the travel and hospitality sector. Abacus International President and CEO Don Birch said, “The lure of low-cost, high quality healthcare in Asia is estimated to be attracting more than 1.3 million tourists a year to the key locations – Thailand, Singapore, India, South Korea and Malaysia.” More... [789 views] Sustainable development to be hot topic at hotel conferenceRoyalty, finance experts, property developers and hoteliers will speak of the need to pursue sustainable environmental policies while building a tourism infrastructure in the Middle East at this month’s Arabian Hotel Investment Conference (AHIC) in Dubai, tackling a subject that has particular relevance given the headlong pace of development in the region. More... [681 views] Smith selected as Hyatt's GM Of The YearThomas D. Smith, general manager of the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa has been awarded the the Donald M. Pritzker Award for Excellence as Hyatt Hotels Corporation's General Manager of the Year. Eleven general managers from 124 U.S.-based hotels were nominated for this prestigious award. More... [1062 views] Hospitality eBusiness Strategies to Present Internet Strategy Workshop at Economy & Budget Hotels World 2006 in LondonHospitality eBusiness Strategies (HeBS), a leading Internet, eMarketing and eDistribution consulting firm for the hospitality industry, today announced the firm will present a one-day workshop at Economy & Budget Hotels World 2006, being held on June 13-15, at the Royal Garden Hotel in London. The workshop will be conducted by Max Starkov, HeBS’ President and CEO, and Jason Price, HeBS Executive Vice President, Business Development and Strategic Marketing. More... [634 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: April 13, 2006The Bed Race - Hotel Companies' Everlasting Pursuit of DifferentiationAccording to Michael Porter, there are three approaches to outperforming other firms in an industry; Differentiation, Overall Cost Leadership, and Focus. Differentiating a product or service of a firm means to create something that is perceived industrywide as unique. Design, brand identity, image, technology, amenities, and customer service all present opportunities for hotel companies to distinguish themselves from the rest. For increased protection, most companies strive to be different on every level. The goal remains the same, to gain customers' loyalty and the resulting lower price-sensitivity. By Gabi Baumann, HVS Internatioanal More... [1834 views] Carlson Hotels Worldwide Announces Top Award WinnersHonors Presented at Company's Annual Business Conference. Carlson Hotels Worldwide honored its top- performing hotels, managers and employees at the company's annual business conference held recently in Las Vegas. Following are highlights of the top award winners for Radisson Hotels & Resorts®, Park Plaza® Hotels & Resorts, Country Inns & Suites By Carlsonsm and Park Inn®. More... [812 views] Business Travelers Report Sharp Improvement in Personalized Hotel Service, Accenture Survey FindsHotels are doing a much better job of providing personalized service than they have previously, according to results of a survey of business travelers released today by Accenture More... [767 views] “B2B Reservation System”– New Perspective in organizing reservation from Travel AgentsPelican offers B2B Reservation System as a new perspective for hoteliers in dealing with negotiated / special rates from travel agents and corporate clients who want to deal directly with the hotel without intermediary channel More... [1162 views] David Katemopoulos appointed General Manager at the Sheraton Haikou ResortAn experienced hotelier with over 20 year’s experience, Mr. Katemopoulos has worked exclusively with luxury hotel brands. He began his professional career with Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts in 1984 and since then, has worked in many top-end hotels in Asia and North America. More... [784 views] First hotel chain in UK and Ireland to introduce self service internet access to meetingsHilton UK & Ireland today became the first hotel chain to introduce self-service Internet access to its meeting rooms at hotels in UK and Ireland. The new, easy to use, self-service product, enables secure high-speed Internet access for up to four guest connections in a meeting room. More... [1020 views] Compete, Inc.'s Latest Study Reveals which Generational Segments are Willing to go the Distance in Their Travel PlanningBaby Boomers the Most Likely to Book Online after Researching Hotels and Flights. Compete, Inc. today announced findings from a new travel study, "Online Travel Comes of Age." The study's findings reveal that consumer's travel planning preferences vary dramatically across generations, providing savvy marketers the opportunity to create distinct strategies for targeting specific generational segments. More... [530 views] Shanghai to develop water tourismThe Shanghai Water Tourism Association announced its decision to develop water tourism into a permanent tourist attraction, emulating the successes of Rotterdam and Amsterdam. The city first offered sightseeing cruises to Donghai Bridge and the Yangshan Deep-Water port as part of the Shanghai Nanhui Peach Blossom Festival. More... [630 views] All The Right MovesHVS Executive Search Gives Some Tips On Job-Hunting In The Hospitality Sector. By Chris Mumford More... [1169 views] World Leaders In Responsible Tourism Recognized At Global Summit2006 Tourism for Tomorrow Awards Winners Announced. The World Travel & Tourism Council today announced the winners of the 2006 Tourism for Tomorrow Awards at the 6th Global Travel and Tourism Summit. The awards recognize and promote best practices in tourism development all over the world. More... [658 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: April 12, 2006Hyatt ready for sale or mergerPrivately-owned hotel group Global Hyatt has not ruled out an initial public offering, its chairman and chief executive has told the FT. Tom Pritzker, who along with his family owns Hyatt, said that if he and the board decided on a flotation, the company would be ready to go towards the end of this year. More... [1767 views] Hotel Web Site Productivity… The New Way to Measure Your Site’s EffectivenessThe way I see it, search engines have become so convenient, user-friendly, and accurate that online consumers are being converted into search addicts. Search engines have become an essential part of the Internet. I feel bad for many hotel web sites that are not yet search-friendly and/or have not improved their site content to accommodate search requirements. By Neil Salerno, The Hotel Marketing Coach More... [1375 views] Ritz-Carlton Edges Out Peninsula as the Most Prestigious Luxury Hotel Brand in 2006Ritz-Carlton edged out Peninsula as the most prestigious luxury brand hotel in the 2006 Luxury Brand Status Index survey of Luxury Hotels conducted by the New York City-based Luxury Institute. Small Luxury Hotels of the World placed a strong third despite its low awareness, tied with Four Seasons. The Luxury Institute surveyed a nationally representative sample of more than 500 households with a minimum of $200,000 in gross annual income and a minimum net worth of $750,000 (including home equity). More... [1260 views] Spacious Shower or an Old-fashioned Tub? Marriott Designing Shower-only RoomsThose of you looking forward to winding down in a hotel room with a hot bath -- well, you'd better call ahead first. Hotels are ripping out tubs in order to give guests roomier showers and tidier, modern bathrooms. The trend toward shower-only rooms comes as hotels increasingly see a bath as a dated ritual and tubs as an unused and inconvenient amenity. The business-traveler mind-set looms large in these calculations. More... [1616 views] Conrad to manage Shanghai's newest luxury hotelHilton Hotels Corporation and Shanghai Li Xing Hotel Company Ltd recently announced the signing of an agreement for Hilton to manage Conrad Shanghai; Shanghai’s newest and most spectacular hotel development. Scheduled to be completed in 2008, the striking Conrad Shanghai will be located in the heart of the vibrant Xintiandi district. More... [984 views] You Belong at Sheraton; Sheraton Launches $20 Million Ad Campaign and Signature ''Warm Welcome'' ExperienceSheraton Hotels & Resorts announced today the launch of its new emotionally driven $20 million global television campaign and the debut of its signature "Warm Welcome" experience in hotels. Developed to introduce the brand's new positioning around warm, comforting, connections, the new campaign and in hotel initiative invite consumers and guests to "belong." Sheraton's ad campaign, titled "Greetings," follows on the heels of sister brand Westin's new ad campaign which debuted last month and is the result of a yearlong revamp of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc's. (NYSE:HOT) marketing and brand strategy. More... [855 views] Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. Announces Closing of Sale of Hotel Portfolio to HostStarwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE: HOT) ("Starwood") announced today that it has closed on a sale of 28 hotels - including hotels under the Sheraton, W, Westin, St. Regis and Luxury Collection brands - to Host Marriott Corporation (NYSE: HMT) ("Host"). The hotels will remain in the Starwood system and continue to be managed by Starwood under long-term management agreements. More... [864 views] InterContinental Hotels Group focuses on Saudi Arabia with dual senior appointment roleInterContinental Hotels Group, the world’s most global hotel company, has appointed André Saadé as Area Director of Sales and Marketing Saudi Arabia Central / East and Bahrain - making him responsible for overseeing the continued development of nine properties in the area. More... [803 views] 50 Sofia-Based Hotels Put for SaleThe Bulgarian capital offers for sale fifty hotels at an average price of EUR 737 per sq m, shows data of imot.bg. Apart from the country's summer and winter resorts, supply of hotel complexes is concentrated primarily in Sofia and the second-biggest city of Plovdiv due to the risks involved in making such an investment. More... [632 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: April 11, 2006Talking Education - Giving Service, a burden or a marketing tool ?Part 3 - The last time I stood in front of my Master Students we discussed the challenges of using service as marketing tool. Soon the discussion came on service in the airline industry, as the student are aware of the fact that the quality of an airline is mainly judged on the flight attendant’s delivery. It takes each time the involvement of more than 300 people to get a 747 plane in the air ( from the captain to the lavatory cleaner ), but the passenger meets only 2 persons, the check-in employee and the flight attendant. By Bert van Walbeek More... [1148 views] Mere battles in the war for recognitionOur terminology has become more bellicose and contentious as we compose, frame and wage our efforts for Consumer Awareness and recognition of our various Brands. In the last several years, we have had the “Bed Wars”, then we moved into the “Amenities War”, ever ramping up our escalation of strategies and tactics to remain competitive or take the lead. Now, we are even looking at the “experiential”, surely a stealth movement. By John R. Hendrie, Hospitality Performance More... [814 views] Luxury hotel guests want no glitches, no apologiesRemember the last time you checked into a hotel and met your host, the general manager? Probably not. Most hotel managers spend their days in meetings fussing over costs, budgets and ways to fill more rooms at a higher rate. But Stan Bromley, who recently retired after 23 years with Four Seasons, says real hoteliers should spend half their time out front greeting and schmoozing guests and employees, and the other half managing their multimillion dollar inn. More... [2564 views] ‘Fairytale’ Villa Feltrinelli on Lake Garda re-opens this weekOne of the world’s most exquisite and luxurious boutique hotels, the idyllic Grand Hotel a Villa Feltrinelli in Gargnano on the shores of Italy’s Lake Garda, re-opens from its annual winter hibernation on April 13th. More... [1204 views] The New Wisdom of the WebWhy is everyone so happy in Silicon Valley again? A new wave of start-ups are cashing in on the next stage of the Internet. And this time, it's all about ... you. More... [781 views] Travel And Hospitality Industry Set To Tap Into Asia’s US$4 Billion Medical Tourism MarketGrowing number of travel agencies catering to specialised needs of this new breed of big-spending tourists, Abacus Reports . Asia’s burgeoning medical tourism industry, expected to be worth at least US$4 billion by 2012, is proving a windfall for the travel and hospitality sector. More... [747 views] Hotel prices, tax includedWhen it comes to booking a hotel room online, figuring out the total cost of a night's stay can be as annoying as listening to a fellow guest snore through a paper-thin wall. By Laura Bly, USA TODAY More... [1011 views] Resort hotels: The new emphasis on total guest revenuePredictions of a 5% growth in leisure vacations along with recommendations to focus on total guest revenues highlighted the 6th Annual Resort Management Conference presented by the Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI), the University of Denver School of Hotel, Restaurant and Tourism Management (HRTM) and the International Resort Managers Association (IRMA) at Pinehurst Resort, North Carolina, last week. More... [910 views] HITEC 2006 Interest Causes Room Block and Exhibits ExpansionGuestroom 2010, Built-up Demand and Popular Education Sessions Cited as Major Factors. More... [544 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: April 10, 2006Ghost stories from Luang PrabangThere she was having breakfast on the verandah of an old French villa in Luang Prabang, feeling on top of the world, when Yeoh Siew Hoon had a strange encounter. More... [1268 views] Vertical DashboardIt's time for your business to take stock of itself and make sure your managers and supervisors are up to their tasks of taking your company to new heights. Businesses must stay competitive and ahead of the curve… Enter-Vertical Dashboard. By Gene Ference More... [1043 views] Expedia and Hyatt Extend Long-Term PartnershipAgreement Builds on 10-Year History of Partnership Between the Two Companies Expedia, Inc., the world's leading online travel company, announced that it has extended its partnership with Hyatt Hotels & Resorts. The new agreement builds on 10 years of association between the two companies. Under it, Expedia(R) and Hyatt continue not only as distribution partners, but also as marketing partners. More... [501 views] New Vice President, Regional director for Starwood Hotels and Resorts Arrives in the Middle EastStarwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide, the world's leading luxury hotel and resort operator, has appointed Guido De Wilde as the new Vice President, Regional Director for the Middle East. More... [1465 views] IT&CMA and CTW Asia-Pacific to move back to Bangkok for 2007TTG Asia Media, the organiser for IT&CMA and CTW Asia-Pacific has confirmed soon-to-be Bangkok’s newest landmark – the Central World Hotel and Convention Centre – as the venue for 2007. Having staged the two trade events for the MICE and corporate travel industries in Bangkok from 2001 to 2004 and in Pattaya from 2005 to 2006, the decision to return to the Thai capital is part of the host country’s celebrations to honour His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s 80th birthday which falls on 5 December 2007. More... [438 views] Summer Travel Preview 2006If you haven't booked your summer vacation yet, don't worry. There's still plenty of time to plan--for the summer of 2007, that is. "Many travelers are making summer travel destination choices very early in the year," says Sheri Lambert , senior vice president at Synovate , in the international market research company's 2006 summer planning survey. As they do, they take up rooms and airplane seats that would normally have remained available for longer. Sophia Banay, Forbes.com More... [772 views] Austrian Heart Centre and InterContinental Hotel to open in AustriaInterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) announced the development of its first ever European hotel as part of a healthcare complex, the InterContinental Resort & Spa in Krems, Austria. A management agreement has been signed with IMC Beteiligungs GmbH, who will own and develop the 119 room hotel and 120 room healthcare clinic set to open in Autumn 2008. More... [769 views] Cendant Hotel Group Completes Baymont Inn & Suites AcquisitionCendant Hotel Group today said it has completed the previously announced acquisition of the Baymont Inn & Suites(r) brand and system of 115 franchised properties. More... [549 views] Parisian Hotel Industry: The Business Clientele Sustains The Activity During The Period Of The StrikeThe current tense social climate that reigns in France has not had any impact on the results of the hotel industry . Better: the occupancy rate of the Parisian hotels progressed in a spectacular manner the day before and during the strike and massive demonstrations against the “First job contract” (CPE) that took place on the 28th of March. MKG Reports... More... [547 views] Hyatt launches new room guaranteesHyatt Hotels & Resorts launches non-smoking and bed type room guarantees at its properties around the world, ensuring guests receive the accommodations they requested at the time of reservation. More... [991 views] Accor China opens record five hotels in one monthAccor is poised for its largest ever expansion in China, with a record 5 hotels opening in just over one month, and 30 hotels under development and scheduled to open in time for the 2008 Olympic Games. This record performance is proving a growth engine driving Accor hotel development around the region and helping Accor capture a growing share of the huge Chinese outbound travel market. More... [976 views] Two New Business Sectors Recommended For .travelThe Travel Partnership Corporation Recommends Consideration of Two New Sectors Eligible for .travel Top Level Domain Name The Travel Partnership Corporation (TTPC), the non-profit body responsible for developing domain name eligibility policies for the .travel TLD, recommended the inclusion of two new sectors to the list of travel industry entities eligible to hold such domain names. More... [449 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: April 7, 2006Hotelier John Willard Marriott - Be Diligent: His hard work, innovation and optimism shaped hotel chainWhen faced with a challenge, 13-year-old J. Willard Marriott got creative....... More... [2415 views] Singapore or Hong Kong: Which is the better place to live?So which is the better place to live if you were an expatriate? Hong Kong or Singapore? Yeoh Siew Hoon gets asked the six million dollar question. More... [3508 views] Raffles Hotel Singapore appoints new General ManagerRaffles Hotel takes pleasure in announcing the appointment of Robert Logan as the new General Manager. More... [1963 views] Indian Hotels takes on management of Dubai propertyIndian Hotels Co. Ltd. has signed a 10-year management contract with Dubai-based property developer ETA Star for a luxury hotel and residential apartment complex in Dubai, officials from both companies said. More... [734 views] AirAsia chief in budget hotel venturesAirAsia's chief executive Tony Fernandes will open a chain of budget hotels to complement the operations of the region's most profitable low-cost carrier, a report has said. The first in the chain of 60 to 70 hotels is expected to open for business at the end of this year in Malaysia before eventual expansion throughout Southeast Asia, More... [717 views] Sustainable development to be hot topic at hotel conferenceRoyalty, finance experts, property developers and hoteliers will speak of the need to pursue sustainable environmental policies while building a tourism infrastructure in the Middle East at this month’s Arabian Hotel Investment Conference (AHIC) in Dubai, tackling a subject that has particular relevance given the headlong pace of development in the region. More... [584 views] How Do Guests View Your Hotel? Cornell Study Says: Ask Them To Show YouHoteliers regularly ask guests to fill out comment cards and surveys about whether they are satisfied with their hotel stay. But even when guests do fill out customer-comment cards or respond to surveys, what drives their comments is not always clear. More... [1613 views] Marriott to cut room pricing guessworkEver make a reservation, get a price quote and then find the final bill is a lot higher than you expected? Usually the quote does not include a variety of local taxes that can be substantial in some places. More... [1089 views] IH&RA opposes round-the-clock hotel check-in/check-out “Once again standardisation is raising its head,” is the response of International Hotel & Restaurant (IH&RA) CEO, David McMillan, to consumer advocacy groups calling for regulation that would force hotels to offer flexible check-in and check-out times and rates for their clients. More... [776 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: April 6, 2006Who is In and Who is Out - Global Staff MovementsThis month's international executive staff movements, check it out..... More... [3907 views] Hotel Revenue Management.... The Way I See ItThe way I see it, there are almost as many versions of revenue management as there are people actually using it. Whether it’s referred to as yield management or revenue management, it’s obvious that it means different things to different people, but no matter what definition or tasks are applied to revenue management; it can work magic if it’s applied correctly and consistently. By Neil Salerno More... [2188 views] Langham Hotels International scoops top accoladesLangham Hotels International (LHI) won two prestigious awards with its first TV commercial, "The Butler", at the Golden City Gate Film Competition, which took place during ITB Berlin on 11 March, 2006. The TV commercial was granted the 5th anniversary grand prize, "The Diamond Award" and the First Prize under hotel category for 2006. More... [763 views] Rezidor SAS to bring Regent Hotels to Mid EastRegent Hotels, the luxury brand of the leading hospitality company Rezidor SAS Hospitality, will open its first Regent hotel in the Middle East - The Regent Kuwait - by the end of next year. More... [663 views] Shangri-La Asia hotel rental income up 18% to US$431mShangri-La Asia reported an 18% increase in hotel rental income in 2005, amounting to US$431 million. Shangri-La Asia reported an 18% increase in hotel rental income in 2005, amounting to US$431 million. Turnover of catering services and auxiliary services was US$317 million and US$59.06 million respectively, up 13.2% and 16.1% over the previous year. More... [799 views] InterContinental Hotels Group rewards four hotels for delivering exceptional guest satisfactionFour hotels are celebrating after being named as InterContinental Hotels Group's (IHG) 2005 Recognition Award winners within Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA). More... [1443 views] Steigenberger Hotel Group Opens the 185 room Steigenberger Hotel de Saxe, DresdenThe Frankfurt-based Steigenberger Hotel Group opened a real gem of a hotel opposite Dresden’s Frauenkirche at the beginning of April. The Steigenberger Hotel de Saxe, whose construction was modelled on historical buildings and whose decor shows a loving attention to detail, will attract both city tourists and business travellers with its 185 guest rooms and ten conference rooms. More... [503 views] Westin Hotels and Resorts continues expansion in India with signing of Westins in Bangalore and SohnaStarwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc continues its expansion momentum in India and in Asia Pacific by announcing agreements with Vatika Hospitality Private Limited, a subsidiary company of Vatika Group, to manage two new Westin hotels in India : The Westin Bangalore and The Westin Sohna Resort. More... [1306 views] InterContinental Mar Menor Golf Resoft and Spa to open on Spain's Costa CalidaJune 2006 sees the further expansion of InterContinental Hotels & Resorts with the opening of the InterContinental Mar Menor Golf Resort & Spa on Spain’s Costa Cálida. More... [741 views] Corinthia Hotels International announces complimentary Internet access for all group business from US marketCorinthia Hotels International (CHI) announced that it will provide complimentary hi-speed internet access in meeting rooms and guest rooms for all Meetings, Incentive and group business originating from the US that are booked in 2006. More... [538 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: April 5, 2006Some Obstacles to Implementing Service at the Level of Creating Truly Memorable ExperiencesThere are obstacles that will prevent a hotel from upgrading service to the level of creating truly memorable experiences (CTME), and here are 4 of them. The obstacles will act as lead weights to your efforts to implement this higher level of service if they are not dealt with. Therefore, I don’t recommend that you simply start the change process with, “Now we want you to create truly memorable experiences, and this is how we’d like you to do it.” By Peter McAlpine More... [1871 views] Six Senses Spa opens contemporary sanctuary at Kempinski Hotel Barbaros Bay - Bodrum, TurkeyKempinski sets the trend for the way Bodrum should be experienced. With a commanding view over the Aegean Sea, combined with striking architecture, the 5-star Kempinski Hotel Barbaros Bay caters to those who appreciate their privacy while indulging in luxury. More... [897 views] Elderly give hotel new lease of lifeSwiss hotels are disappearing in unprecedented numbers, but one has been given a reprieve by offering beds to guests living out their final years. The hotel near Interlaken has discovered a new, growing market: elderly people in need of care. It could be a solution for some of the other hundreds of hotels expected to slip into extinction over the next few years. More... [798 views] Four Seasons Hotel, Milan sold for over €200 millionQuinlan Private Sells Four Seasons Hotel, Milan for over €200 million to Statuto Group More... [1477 views] Starwood Hotels Promotes Kenneth S. Siegel to Chief Administrative OfficerStarwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. announced the promotion of Kenneth S. Siegel to Chief Administrative Officer. Mr. Siegel, who joined Starwood in 2000 as Executive Vice President and General Counsel, will continue to oversee the company's legal and government affairs, while assuming new areas of responsibility. More... [822 views] Hilton Chongqing Appoints Sven Isberg as General ManagerHilton Chongqing is pleased to announce the appointment of Sven Isberg as the business hotel’s new General Manager, Fintan O’Doherty and Andreas Bruck as Director of Operations and Executive Chef respectively. More... [1049 views] Choice Hotels Expands Franchise Ownership Among MinoritiesWorldwide lodging franchisor Choice Hotels International, Inc. today announced that 2005 was a watershed year for the company's Emerging Markets Division, which is dedicated to the expansion and diversification of the Choice Hotels franchisee base. More... [731 views] Hilton Hotels Corp puts LivingWell up for saleHilton Hotels Corporation (HHC), the American hotel operator that has just acquired Hilton International, has appointed advisers to sell the LivingWell health club chain that came with the acquisition for more than 100 mln stg, according to The Times. More... [677 views] Novotel Citygate Hong Kong OpensThe contemporary 440-room hotel, located just 5 minutes' drive from Hong Kong International Airport, sets new standards for four-star hotels in the city and will make a significant contribution to Hong Kong's tourism industry which is enjoying unprecedented growth. More... [664 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: April 4, 2006FROM THE TOP: An interesting RendezvousIts name, Rendezvous, is French in origin. Its owner is Singapore public-listed company, Straits Trading. Its base is in Sydney and its management comprises largely Australian hoteliers. Raini Hamdi talks to Rendezvous Hotels & Resorts International CEO, Mr Alan Featherby, about what the hotel group is all about. More... [1004 views] Time To Save The DaylightThere's no better time of year to take a look at just how your hotel, resort or casino runs-where it is wasteful, how it is efficient and how you can help save time, energy, money, your job…perhaps more. Best use practices of resources saves money…By Gene Ference More... [895 views] A Hotel Guest Who Doesn't Want RecognitionAmong hotel inspectors, there is only one quality that is more valued than our ability to review a property's cleanliness, condition and comfort: our anonymity. Luxury hotels have to undergo rigorous service tests by secret inspectors to qualify for a four- or five-diamond rating. The staff often plays a cat-and-mouse game trying to identify the inspector.And sometimes, they catch us. By Michael Petrone, The New York Times More... [1678 views] St. Francis San Francisco latest hotel up for saleIn what could be the next sale of a high-profile San Francisco hotel, the owners of the Westin St. Francis have quietly placed the city's third-largest hotel on the market, according to analysts and industry observers. The venerable St. Francis, which was built in 1904 on Union Square, could fetch more than $350 million, said analysts. More... [792 views] A New General Manager for Sheraton Miramar Resort – El GounaSheraton Miramar Resort El Gouna has appointed Klaus Christandl as the new General Manager of the hotel. More... [812 views] Thai hotel industry needs supportThai hoteliers say they need more support from the government to help them compete with international rivals that are increasingly gaining a foothold in Bangkok. "Looking at those luxurious hotels on the banks of Chao Phraya River, most of them are now owned by international investors," said Chanin Donavanik, who was re-elected as the chairman of the Thai Hotels Association (THA) on Friday. More... [744 views] Roman hoteliers pursue rates over occupancyIn its latest monthly review of European hotels TRI Hospitality Consulting warns of the dangers of increasing room rates to the detriment of occupancy levels. More... [727 views] Spanish Hotel Market Review and Assessment – BarcelonaAfter assessing the performance of the Madrid hotel market, this article focuses on the Barcelona market. More... [785 views] Personalised, experience-driven travel on the riseLuxury travellers are increasingly seeking more authentic experiences and customised itineraries when they travel, according to Carlson Companies, a global player in the travel, hospitality and restaurant businesses. More... [790 views] Corinthia Hotels International (CHI) Appoints Ann. J. Tillman as New Vice President Sales and Marketing of North AmericaIn making the announcement, Geoff Andrew, CHI Group Director, Sales & Marketing, said, “We are expanding and strengthening our sales presence here following a very successful first year in the US market. More... [576 views] New Cendant TDS Research Reveals Travel Buying Behavor of Small to Medium Size Companies in Asia- PacificHCendant Travel Distribution Services (TDS), a division of Cendant Corporation (NYSE: CD), today announced the results of research undertaken in Asia-Pacific, to determine the travel buying behavior of small to medium-sized companies (SMEs). More... [537 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: April 3, 2006"Don't Worry, Be Happy"This Anthem for the Nineties seems flat for this decade, but we hear Hospitality folks humming the tune, a little like Nero fiddling, while Rome burns. The elephant is in the room, but we tend to avoid any acknowledgement that events and issues, many in our control, are swirling about which will affect our trade and livelihood. Easier to echo Annie with “Tomorrow, tomorrow…” rather than pay the piper today. By John R. Hendrie, Hospitality Performance More... [1007 views] Dear Auntie, why are you looking so stressed?Yeoh Siew Hoon knows she is going to sound really old when she says this – but she doesn’t care. The one – and only – benefit of ageing is you can say what you like without being self-conscious anymore. More... [934 views] Best Travel SitesOnce upon a time, only millionaires visited Paris for the weekend. These days, anyone with a credit card and Internet access can take off for a three-day jaunt to Europe. They can bid for a cheap hotel room, book a rental car and pinpoint and secure the last window seat left on a commercial flight--all the day before leaving. In comparison, flying the Concorde seems almost archaic. More... [1154 views] The Presidential Suite MystiqueMorris Silver, a public relations executive, was remembering the day he tried to get a room at a Los Angeles hotel and was told it was full. "So they put me in the presidential suite." The next morning he went downstairs for breakfast with a client. "When I got back up to the suite, I was out. 'So sorry,' they said, 'but the prime minister of Japan has arrived and will be occupying the premises.' " Within a few hours, Mr. Silver got a sense not only of the thrill of staying in a presidential suite, but also of how hotels treat these spacious showcases. By Paul Burnham Finney, The New York Times More... [1027 views] Mandarin Oriental to open luxury hotel in BarcelonaMandarin Oriental Hotel Group has announced that it will manage a new, luxurious hotel currently under development in Barcelona. The project provides the Group with a unique opportunity to expand its luxury brand in Europe and in particular, into one of Europe’s foremost travel destinations. More... [912 views] Legendary Austrian Lakeside Hotel, Schloss Velden, To Reopen As A Capella Hotel & ResortThe magic of a stay at an Austrian lakeside chateau is truly one of life's great travel experiences. Now, a new top-tier international hotel brand is determined to spark a rebirth of the grand European hotel tradition - the ultimate combination of service, luxury and extraordinary surroundings. More... [1339 views] Bangkok hotel bookings seen down 10 pct in March amid political crisisHotel bookings in Bangkok are likely to fall by up to 10 pct in March with political paralysis expected to continue following elections Sunday, industry officials said. More... [608 views] Cornell Hotel School announces new "Conversations with Entrepreneurs" seriesThe Institute for Hospitality Entrepreneurship at Cornell's School of Hotel Administration is launching a new speaker series this spring titled "Conversations with Entrepreneurs." Each month during the academic year different hospitality entrepreneurs will visit the School to describe how they conceived an entrepreneurial vision and transformed that vision into an extraordinary business success. More... [655 views] Kempinski to open Dubai Ski Resort in April 2006The first ski hotel in Dubai is due to open on 7 April 2006. The new Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates is attached not only to the recently opened Ski Dubai indoor ski resort, but also to one of the largest shopping malls outside of North America. More... [864 views] Vinexpo Asia-Pacific: Soaring Chinese Spending Key to Growth of US$267 Billion BusinessReports of exponential growth in the consumption of wine in China have been confirmed by an authoritative industry survey, and the potentially vast market will be one of the main focal points for Vinexpo-Asia Pacific 2006, a major trade show for the wine and spirits industry to be held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre from May 23rd to 25th. More... [646 views] 
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ehotelier Hospitality News Archives: April 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: April 28, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: April 27, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: April 26, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: April 25, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: April 24, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: April 21, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: April 20, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: April 19, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: April 18, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: April 17, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: April 14, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: April 13, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: April 12, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: April 11, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: April 10, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: April 7, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: April 6, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: April 5, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: April 4, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: April 3, 2006
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